Syrian President and Patriarch John X Affirm Church’s National Role in Unity

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Gerges Mounir Hanna – OCP News Service – 17/08/2025

Damascus – Syria: On August 16, 2025, the President of the Syrian Arab Republic, Mr. Ahmad Al-Shar’a, received His Beatitude Patriarch John X Yazigi of Antioch and All the East for the Greek Orthodox at the People’s Palace in Damascus. The meeting was characterized by a shared emphasis on the vital role of the Church in promoting national unity and citizenship.

During the discussion, both leaders underscored that the Church is a key institution for strengthening the values of civil peace and mutual understanding between all Syrians, both Muslims and Christians. They highlighted that this is built on a foundation of love and fraternity.

President Al-Shar’a affirmed that the Christian presence in Syria is a fundamental pillar of society. He praised the Antiochian Patriarchate for its long history and for its role as a witness to the steadfastness and cohesion of the Syrian people. In response, Patriarch John X expressed his gratitude and committed to the Church’s continued unifying mission, working for the good, security, and stability of the nation.

The meeting underscored that the unity and solidarity of Syrians are the surest way to a strong and resilient homeland, with the Church remaining a voice of truth and humanity.

Source:

OCP News Service